5 Best Electronic Drum Sets for Beginners Reviewed in 2024

Getting one of the best electronic drum sets for beginners is a daunting task: there are hundreds of sets to consider but which one is the best for you?

Your electronic drum set can make or break your learning process, your first studio or home recordings and live performances. I’m gonna help you make the right choice without breaking the bank.

Based on my tests, the Roland TD-02KW digital drum set ticks all the boxes when it comes to quality, functionality, features, and value for your buck.

All the drum sets I reviewed in this roundup will fit easily into your home, be it a house or an apartment. These sets have adjustable volume settings that let you practice without disturbing anyone around you. That’s the biggest advantage of an electronic drum set over regular acoustic drums.

Here’s my full list of the best entry-level electronic drum kit options. I also threw in a buyer’s guide to help you make the right choice. 

5 Best Electronic Drum Sets for Beginners Reviews

1. Best Overall – Roland TD-02KV

Roland TD-02KW is by far the best electronic drum set for beginners. I’ve been recommending it for quite some time now and for a good reason: when I played it first I was really impressed (and I don’t get impressed easily). It’s everything a beginner would expect from a drum kit, and then some.

SPECS:

• Kit Configuration: 7 modules + stand
• Drum Kits: 16
• Coach Functions: 5 modes
• Metronome: Tempo 20-260
• Rhythm Type: 5
• Sounds: 15 types
• Display: LCD (with backlight)

The Roland TD-02KV is my favorite set of electronic drums for beginners. It comes with impressive components and a quality design. The kit includes a PDX-8 dual-layered mesh snare pad that makes it easy to play and get a great sound. What’s more, you can expect a very realistic and responsive drumming experience. 

Once you are past the beginner level, this mesh snare pad also supports advanced techniques like rimshots and cross-sticking. Simply put, you will be able to drum in a more expressive way.

The TD-02KV module offers 16 preset kits inspired by the higher-end Roland V-Drums models. What this means is a high-quality sound and versatility at a much lower price, which is a big plus in my book. 

Connectivity is another strong suit of this module. A USB audio/MIDI interface allows you to connect the kit to the computer-based music production and recording software. 

There’s also a headphone output for quiet practice sessions so you’ll get no complaints about the noise. 

An audio input to connect external music players or devices means you’ll be able to play along with your favorite tracks.

One feature I love is the option to add wireless MIDI and Bluetooth audio using an additional adapter. This allows me a cable-free setup. This is super-useful for practicing along with music from streaming services without messing with a bunch of cables.

The drum set configuration includes three tom pads with rubber playing surfaces, three CY-5 cymbal pads, and a beater-less KT-1 kick drum pedal. The Roland TD-02KV is designed to minimize noise, which is ideal for apartment living, for instance. 

The four-post rack is adjustable yet sturdy. It allows for some serious drumming with a wobble-free base for the pads and comfortable positioning.

Since the TD-02KV was designed with beginners in mind, it features built-in coaching functions to help you develop skills in a fun way. These functions are especially useful for new drummers who are looking to improve their timing and technique as fast as possible.

Priced competitively, the TD-02KV offers a balance of quality, functionality, and affordability. While there are cheaper options available on the market, the TD-02KV’s features and build quality make it a worthwhile investment if you are interested in learning to play the drums —regardless of your musical background or age. The set has everything you need to start your drumming journey on the right foot. All you need to do is make the first step – get this kit and start playing!

2. Best Budget – Alesis Nitro Max

Alesis Nitro Max rightfully takes the slot of best budget beginners’ electronic drum kits. It’s the best starter kit for drummers who are starting out and expect to get a great set without breaking the bank.

SPECS:

• Drum Kits: 32 ready-to-play classic and modern kits from BFD + 16 user kits
• Instruments: 440 drum, cymbal, and percussion sounds.
• Effects: Reverb, 3-band equalizer
• Sequencer: 60 built-in play-along tracks, sequencer, metronome, and performance recorder
• Tempo: 30–280 BPM
• Display: Backlit LED

The set includes four dual-zone mesh drum pads and three 10″ rubber cymbals. I love how it provides a realistic and responsive playing experience, which is crucial to continually motivate new drummers. 

The included kick pedal is rather basic but gets the job done. Having said that, once you progress in drumming, you might consider upgrading. Connection cables, drumsticks, drum key, and power supply are also included in the kit.

The Nitro Max module contains 440 high-quality drum sounds (studio, rock, funk, hip-hop, jazz, metal, etc.) derived from the BFD Player and 32 preset kits. It also offers 16 user kit slots so you can customize it whichever way you want. The module features a master reverb and three-band EQ, which I consider a welcome bonus.

The module also serves as a mixer for your drums and other external stereo audio sources you may need to use. This will save you a chunk of money as you won’t need to buy a separate mixer to start with.

What I also love is the metronome, as well as the inclusion of some essential training tools such as jam tracks and a performance recorder. It’s so convenient to be able to study your drumming and speed up your skills development.

Connectivity features include USB MIDI, stereo line/headphone output, and CD/MP3 aux input. The Bluetooth functionality works like a charm: it enables wireless music streaming so I can drum along to my favorite tracks. 

Although moderately priced, the Nitro Max comes with a comprehensive range of features to suit beginners looking for the best entry level electronic drum kit. My only gripe is that the assembly instructions are not as clear as I would like.

3. Most Versatile E-Drum Set – Yamaha DTX6K-X

The Yamaha DTX6K-X electronic drum set delivers a truly versatile and realistic drumming experience. It’s an excellent choice for both practice and performance. Yamaha really killed it on this one!

SPECS:

• Drum kits: Preset: 40 Kits, User: 200 Kits
• Voices: 712
• Maximum Polyphony: 256 notes
• Tempo: 30 to 300 BPM, Tap Tempo supported.
• Display: Full Dot LCD (128×64 dot)

Even for beginners, the kit is super-easy to assemble: I got it up and running in a little less than one hour. 

The set includes an 8-inch XP80 snare with two rim zones, offering dynamic control for nuanced play even for beginner drummers. The three 7-inch tom pads are single-zone but I still find them responsive and consistent across the kit. 

I also found that its TCS (Textured Cellular Silicone) heads deliver a remarkably realistic drumming experience, providing natural rebound and minimizing noise during my play.

The kit’s cymbals, consisting of three PCY135 13-inch pads, are three-zone (edge, bow, and bell), allowing for expressive playing with choke functionality. The hi-hat pad, paired with a standard hi-hat stand, works like a charm.

The KP90 kick pad accommodates double bass pedals and provides a great feel for awesome bass drum strikes. The RS6 rack is sturdy and allows me flexible pad positioning.

The DTX Pro drum module is the heart of this kit, featuring over 700 sounds recorded in top studios. It includes 40 preset kits and 200 user slots. Believe me, it’s as customizable as it gets! I find the module’s interface to be intuitive, with dedicated knobs to easily adjust ambiance, compression, and effects, allowing me to quickly modify the sound as needed. 

Each pad has a channel strip with EQ, transient adjustment, compression, and insert effects. In a word, I get total control over the sound I’m aiming for.

I found the training features really useful, with a variety of practice songs covering multiple genres. These will help drummers to improve their technique super-quickly. The module also supports USB connectivity so that you can import custom samples, and expand the sonic possibilities of the set even further.

4. Best Premium Hardware – Alesis Surge Mesh Special Edition

The Alesis Surge Mesh Special Edition (SE) electronic drum set is a great option for beginner drummers but also for intermediate ones. Compared to the Alesis Nitro, the Surge Mesh SE comes with a chrome structure, which I find a great touch for the price.

SPECS:

• Drum Kits: 40 (24 Preset + 16 User)
• Instruments: 385 drum, cymbal, and percussion sounds.
• Effects: Reverb and equalizer
• Sequencer: 60 built-in play-along tracks, sequencer, metronome, and performance recorder
• Tempo: 30–280 BPM
• Display: Backlit LED

The Surge Mesh SE eight-piece kit includes a 10” dual-zone mesh snare, three 8” dual-zone mesh toms, and an 8” mesh kick drum. All play really well and have a natural feel. 

The cymbals consist of a 10” hi-hat, a 10” crash, and a 10” ride, both with choke. They deliver a wide range of dynamic responses, which I always expect from Alesis.

The pads are all connected to a very stable chrome structure. Thanks to the chrome hardware, this e-drum set feels stable when I play it. 

The Surge Drum Module is packed with 40 ready-to-play kits. They consist of 24 preset and 16 user-defined kits, which is more than enough to entice my creativity when drumming. The module has 385 sounds so I can customize the heck out of it. 

For fast track learning, the module comes with 60 play-along tracks, a built-in metronome, and a performance recorder. What’s more, the USB/MIDI connectivity enables easy integration with recording software and virtual instruments of your choice.

5. Best Mesh Pads – Roland TD-07DMK

Roland TD-07DMK features double-ply mesh heads which provide a highly realistic feel and excellent rebound, closely mimicking the response of acoustic drumheads.

SPECS:

• Kit Configuration: 7 modules + stand
• Drum Kits: 25 preset drum kits and 25 user slots
• Coach Functions: 5 modes
• Metronome: Tempo 20-260
• Sounds: 143 
• Display: LCD (with backlight)

The TD-07 module comes with 25 preset drum kits and 25 user slots. It includes 143 percussive sounds (from standard acoustic to my favorite snappy electronic). 

The interface is intuitive enough that I can navigate through the sounds and customize the kits just the way I like it.

The kit is compact, which is perfect for small spaces. The mesh heads are rather quiet—your practice sessions won’t disturb anyone around.

My only gripe is that the kit doesn’t come with a kick pedal, throne, or drumsticks, so you’ll need to buy them separately. But all things considered, I found the build quality and the expressiveness of the sounds I got from the Roland TD-07DMK well worth the price.

Best Electronic Drum Sets for Beginners Buyer’s Guide 

Price

If you’re just starting out, you don’t want to spend too much in case you may not take to drumming after all. However, you don’t want to go cheap either, as the bad experience may put you off. 

Electronic drum sets come in a wide range of prices, so I suggest that you go for the set that fits your budget without compromising basic features. Compare different models and brands to see which kit offers the best value. 

Obviously, what you pay is what you get so investing a bit more will get you more awesome features and a better playing and learning experience.

Sound Quality and Versatility 

What I expect from a good starter electronic drum set is a decent range of high-quality drum and percussion sounds. Realistic acoustic drum sounds as well as various quirky electronic tones will allow you to experiment and find the right sounds for different musical styles. 

The more fun you have while drumming, the more likely you will stick to it and make progress as a drummer.

Playability and Responsiveness

The feel and responsiveness of the drum pads are features that separate mediocre and good starter kits. Drum pads should react accurately to your playing dynamics, be it soft taps or hard hits. 

I always go for mesh heads because of their realistic rebound and adjustability. Great playability ensures that my practice sessions really look and feel like playing acoustic drums, minus the noise.

Built-In Learning Tools

For beginners, built-in learning tools are great for motivation and progress. I recommend that you look for coaching modes, metronomes, and play-along tracks. These cool features will help you develop timing, rhythm, and coordination. Compared to a regular acoustic drum set, e-drums win when it comes to learning assistance.

Some kits even include access to interactive lessons or connectivity to apps for guided practice. This will make your learning process more engaging and structured. You’ll also save a chunk of money on live drumming lessons.

Portability and Easy Setup

A portable design is a must if you live in a small apartment or if you need to move your kit around for practice or recording sessions. I suggest that you look for kits with foldable stands and lightweight components, or you can even buy a drum machine for an even easier setup. Sound features often steal the show when reading specs but dimensions and weight are equally important.

Connectivity Options

Modern electronic drum sets should have USB and MIDI outputs to allow you to connect to your computer and recording equipment. The AUX inputs will let you play along with your favorite tracks. Bluetooth is definitely a bonus for wireless connection to other devices.